LOCH NESS, INVERNESS, CLAVA CAIRNS & MORE FROM INVERGORDON

Explore the Highlands with a Full-Day Private Tour from Invergordon for $195

This 7.5-hour private tour from Invergordon offers a comprehensive journey through some of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. For $195 per person, travelers enjoy visits to Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield, Clava Cairns, Cawdor Castle, and a whiskey distillery. The tour is perfect for those who want a detailed, guided experience with local insights. The tour includes complimentary snacks and water, and pick-up and drop-off from the cruise port as well as hotels, train stations, and guesthouses in Invergordon.

A key strength is the knowledgeable guides, praised for their enthusiasm and expertise, making even historic sites lively and engaging. The full schedule balances sightseeing, cultural history, and a whisky tasting, making this tour appealing for a wide range of interests. Travelers should note that the tour moves at a steady pace and involves some walking at outdoor sites, so it suits those comfortable with a bit of physical activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• 7.5-hour guided tour covering major Highlands sites, starting from Invergordon
• Visit Loch Ness, with a photo stop at the world-famous loch and Nessie folklore
• Explore Culloden Battlefield, where the 1745 Jacobite Rising ended
• Discover Clava Cairns, prehistoric sites linked to “Outlander”
• Tour Cawdor Castle, a medieval fortress with beautiful gardens
• Includes whiskey tasting at Singleton Distillery with a 40-minute stop
• Complimentary snacks and water provided throughout the day

How the Tour Begins at Invergordon and Sets Off on Your Highlands Journey

The tour starts with pick-up from Invergordon Port, where a friendly guide greets travelers holding a “Historic & Scenic Tours” sign. The group boards a comfortable minibus, and the journey begins with scenic views of Cromarty Firth. The tour’s logistics are well-organized, ensuring smooth transitions between sites, and pick-up and drop-off are available at hotels, guesthouses, train stations, and bus stations in Invergordon.

This private group experience offers the advantage of flexibility and personalized attention from the guide. The online commentary enhances the trip, providing historical context and local stories that make each stop more meaningful. The entire experience is designed to efficiently cover a variety of landmarks while allowing enough time to enjoy each one comfortably.

Visiting the Historic Beauly Priory and Its Ruins

The first notable stop is Beauly Priory, where a guided 20-minute tour reveals its extensive ruins and history. Once home to Valliscaulian monks, these ruins provide a glimpse into medieval monastic life. The site offers a peaceful atmosphere for walking and photo-taking, and the guide shares interesting stories about the priory’s past.

This stop sets the tone for the day, blending history and scenery. The priory’s remaining structures and surrounding grounds make it a peaceful introduction to Highland architecture and religious history. Visitors appreciate the engaging commentary that makes the ruins come alive.

Capturing Iconic Photos at Loch Ness

The tour then moves to Loch Ness, where a 20-minute photo stop allows travelers to admire the loch’s vastness and scenic beauty. While Nessie, the legendary monster, is part of the lore, the main focus is the impressive landscape and the chance to snap memorable photos.

Though the stop is brief, the views of Scotland’s largest lake are spectacular, especially with the surrounding hills and mist. This is a highlight for many, providing an opportunity to imagine the stories and myths that swirl around this mysterious waterscape.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering Inverness: Cathedral and City Views

A 40-minute visit to Inverness gives travelers time to see the Saint Andrew’s Cathedral and enjoy some city sightseeing. The cathedral’s architecture and interior are notable, and the guide shares details about its history and significance.

Inverness, as the capital of the Highlands, offers a lively atmosphere with shops, cafes, and historic sites. The city stop balances cultural insight with leisure, giving a taste of Highland urban life amidst the scenic surroundings.

Exploring the Sacred Clava Cairns

Next, the group visits Clava Cairns, a prehistoric site linked to the “Outlander” series. The site features well-preserved stone cairns and standing stones, with a 20-minute sightseeing window. The site’s connection to Scottish legends and its mystical feel make it a compelling stop.

Travelers appreciate the chance to walk among the ancient stone structures and hear stories about their possible origins and significance. The site’s tranquil setting adds a contemplative element to the tour.

Reflecting at Culloden Battlefield

A 30-minute stop at Culloden Battlefield offers a poignant look at a pivotal moment in Scottish history. Visitors can explore the battlefield where the Jacobite rising met its end in 1746. The site features informative displays and a visitor center that detail the events and aftermath.

The guide provides context about the battle’s significance, making it a meaningful experience. Walking over the moor, travelers get a sense of the scale and intensity of this historic conflict, which shaped modern Scotland.

Whiskey Tasting at Singleton Distillery

The tour pauses at the Singleton of Glen Ord Distillery for a 40-minute whiskey tasting and tour of the distillery grounds. This includes sampling different whiskies and learning about the distillation process, adding a flavorful dimension to the day.

The distillery’s welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff help visitors appreciate Highland whisky craftsmanship. The tasting is a highlight for enthusiasts and newcomers alike, rounding off the Scottish experience in a relaxing setting.

Returning to Invergordon with Lasting Impressions

After the distillery visit, the journey concludes with a scenic drive back to Invergordon Port. The guide wraps up the day with reflections and answers any remaining questions. The drop-off is smooth, ensuring travelers arrive on time for their cruise or other plans.

Throughout the day, the tour maintains a steady rhythm, balancing sightseeing, story-telling, and leisure. The combination of historic sites, stunning scenery, and whisky tasting offers a well-rounded Highland experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This private tour suits those interested in Scottish history, legends, and culture, especially visitors looking for a comprehensive day in the Highlands. The knowledgeable guides are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of information, making the sites engaging and accessible.

Travelers should be comfortable with some walking and outdoor visits, as sites like Culloden and Clava Cairns involve outdoor exploration. The experience is ideal for adults or older children with an interest in history and scenery, and those seeking a relaxed, personalized day.

Final Thoughts on the Highland Adventure from Invergordon

This 7.5-hour tour presents a balanced mix of historic sites, stunning landscapes, and Scottish traditions such as whisky tasting. The value for $195 is solid, given the inclusion of transfers, snacks, water, and a professional guide. Its private nature offers personalized attention and flexibility, making it a good choice for those who prefer an intimate group experience.

While the schedule is packed, the pacing is steady, and the stops are thoughtfully chosen to maximize enjoyment without feeling rushed. For visitors to Invergordon wanting a well-rounded Highland day with local insights, this tour delivers a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour involves some outdoor walking and sightseeing, making it suitable for most adults and older children. Physical comfort should be considered for those with mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, water, snacks, online commentary, and whiskey tasting at Singleton Distillery. Pick-up and drop-off at the cruise port and local accommodations are also included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if plans change.

Are there any specific dress codes or preparations needed?
Comfortable clothing and weather-appropriate footwear are recommended, especially for outdoor sites like Culloden and Clava Cairns.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby